The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I’m hoping someone may have an answer here. My VV 8-7 has this weird corrosion on the tonearm. Any good ways to clean it off? I obviously don’t want to try anything harsh. I wiped it down with ammonia which did nothing. Anyone?

Sean

Most likely, the corrosion is not "on" the oxidized finish, but through it. Down to the brass beneath. If you could remove the oxidation, I don't believe the finish would look any better. My guess is, that it would look worse. Is that tone arm specifically for an 8-7, or might there be a better example out there?

I'm not sure this is a "standard" size. I've had this 8-7 for maybe 5 years now and I'm just now starting to get back into getting it done. This machine, along with a few others here have been sitting unfinished for far too long!

Sean

There has got to be a way to get that finish back on there, without swapping the tonearm...anyone have an idea how they did it back then?

You might want to try 0000 steel wool soaked with WD-40. I have removed corrosion from other metal this way, but not sure about this tonearm. If you do it lightly it might not remove the original oxidation. If it does, you could re-oxidize the brass with gun bluing or a similar chemical to re-touch the color...

I wanted to ask a question regarding a Columbia coin-op AS. Are the cabinet keys that lock the end of the glass cover universal or were they individually made? I have locks and keys for the front panel and the coin box, but only have the lock and no key for the single lock on the right side of the cover. Is it possible to find a key for these?

Curt

Hey Sean,

I was under the impression that the 8-7 tone arm was originally nickel. I also have an 8-7, mine doesn’t look so hot either, but there are spots where it appears shiny. I could be completely wrong though.

Happy new year! I hope you’re doing well.

Greg